DEVELOPING MUNGBEAN (VIGNA RADIATA) (L) AS ALTERNATIVE CROP FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED FARMERS THROUGH RESEARCH AND OUTREACH

The goal of this study is to develop mungbean for human consumption, evaluate the agronomic, and economic feasibility as a viable alternative crop for small and medium-sized farms in Tennessee.ObjectivesThis goal will be achieved through the following specific objectives:To assess knowledge gap about the crop among small and medium-sized farmers in Tennessee.To evaluate a wide range of mungbean varieties and germplasm lines for adaptation and agronomic and physiological traits desirable for production as food crop in Tennessee.To conduct economic analysis of mungbean production under prevailing farming conditions in Tennessee.To examine current marketing channels used and consider other channels that could be considered by small and medium-sized farmers.To develop outreach resources and training programs to assist small and medium-sized farmers in the cultivation of mungbean in Tennessee.